Rio de Janeiro region offers astrotourism and historical hiking trails

The mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, offers diverse tourism opportunities ranging from astronomical observation to historical trekking.

Santa Maria Madalena has emerged as a premier destination for astrotourism due to its minimal light pollution. The Desengano State Park, located at an altitude of 632 meters, was certified in 2021 by the International Dark-Sky Association as the first ‘dark sky park’ in Latin America. The town also features 19th-century colonial architecture and is the birthplace of Brazilian actress Dercy Gonçalves. The peak astrotourism season runs from April to October, highlighted by the Festival das Estrelas in August.

Additionally, the Caminhos de Trajano de Moraes provides a 37-kilometer trail through the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica). The route spans five districts and includes six independent circuits suitable for trekking, mountain running, cycling, and paragliding. The trail passes through historical sites such as colonial church ruins and old coffee farms, as well as protected areas like the José Zago State Forest.